Congratulations Miss and Jr. Miss Ak-Chin 2016

The Miss Ak-Chin Pageant began in 2008. The tradition arose after conversations were started to visualize and plan their goals for the pageant. Upon recommending the pageant to the Ak-Chin Indian Community Tribal Council, the endorsement of the pageant planning was approved. The research and knowledge of how other “sister tribes” celebrate their pageants, significantly influence and benefit the long-standing traditions celebrating Ak-Chin’s birthday (Masik Tas) in December. Ak-Chin’s Masik Tas is celebrated every year with a pageant, parade, entertainment, cultural dances, food vendors, a rodeo, a basketball tournament, and vaila dances.

2015-16 Miss and Jr Miss Ak-Chin at Iwo Jima Landing parade – Photo Courtesy of the Ak-Chin O’odham Runner

2015-16 Miss Ak-Chin – Photo Courtesy of the Ak-Chin O’odham Runner

Congratulations to Esperanza Miranda, a 17-year-old senior at Maricopa High School, for winning the Miss Ak-Chin Pageant. She was chosen based on the judges’ scores in a variety of categories: essay, introduction, traditional and modern talent, and traditional and modern dress. Miranda came out on top, bringing her incredible talent and personality to the table.
The requirements on which Miss Ak-Chin is chosen are as follows: must be enrolled as an Ak-Chin Indian Community member, must be between the ages of 17 to 25, must have never been married, have no children, and must be attending school or working.

New to the pageant this year was the addition of Jr. Miss Ak-Chin. The pageant committee’s vision was to create a stepping stone for young women who were potentially interested in vying for the title of Miss Ak-Chin. Crowned as Jr. Miss Ak-Chin is Anyssa Justin, who is 15 years old and a sophomore at Maricopa High School. Her award was determined by the judges’ scores using the same criteria as for Miss Ak-Chin. The requirements for this pageant were as follows: must be enrolled as an Ak-Chin Indian Community member, must be between the ages of 13 to 16, and must be a full-time student attending school.

2015-16 Jr Miss Ak-Chin – Photo Courtesy of the Ak-Chin O’odham Runner

The most important objective of creating the pageant was to provide young women in the community an opportunity to obtain the meaning of their history in heritage and culture. The pageant allows young women to enhance their public speaking skills, travel to different areas and achieve considerable growth as ambassadors of the community and for themselves.

For more information, visit http://www.ak-chin.nsn.us.

Last Updated on 03/11/2025 by Danny O’Donnell

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Danny O'Donnell

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As the co-founder of Cowboy Lifestyle Network (CLN) Cowboy Lifestyle Network - now a western media powerhouse with over 4 million fans, Danny has become a trusted voice in rodeo culture, horse care, and Western traditions. CLN’s success is no accident; it’s built on Danny’s deep understanding of the Western way of life-its values, people, and economic engine. His work connects brands, events, and fans across a thriving industry, from the Rodeo Scottsdale to the Super Bowl Party Trophy Bar.

Danny’s journey from Arizona ranch life to Western media trailblazer is rooted in authenticity, grit, and community. Danny’s passion started early, shaped by eight years in Pinal County’s 4-H program, where he raised lambs and learned ranching hands-on. At Arizona State University, he became a division 1 collegiate diver, team captain, and earned a B.S. degree - fueling his entrepreneurial spirit. After a decade of corporate management experience, he launched CLN with his brother Patrick to amplify the voice of the Western community.

"Giving back has always mattered to me," Danny shares. His ongoing support for Horses Help, Harris Brothers Charity Foundation, and a 25-year CLN Christmas Toy Drive speaks volumes. Through action, Danny has built not just a brand, but a legacy of trust and impact in the Western world.

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